What should the response be to someone wanting to be paid in cash for a service?

[phylny]

97. Very interesting and varied responses, thank you.

So, she came and cleaned - superb job. I didn't see her as I was at work (my husband was at home) and I left cash. I'll talk to her when I can see her in person, and will talk to the neighbor I got the referral from.

So, here's a follow-up question, or maybe just an extension question for extra credit:

If you answered saying it's none of my business if she pays taxes or not (and it is none of my business when you get right down to it) are you okay with carrying the burden for those who do not pay for services through their taxes when you pay your payroll taxes and pay into Social Security and Medicare? Obviously, if she's not paying into SS now, the amount she'll get later is less, but for argument's sake, is it okay with you?

What if a person is making what you make, but is being paid off the books and getting public assistance in the form of help with food, or WIC, pubic housing. Is that okay with you as well?

What if they are collecting disability but working off the books?

I just want to see how far people are willing to pay for those who can pay and choose not to.

For me, I think if you're earning enough to pay taxes, you should. If you're poor or disabled, or struggling in some other way it's my responsibility to help you through my tax dollars and other means. But since I pay my taxes, I think others should as well, otherwise we can collectively afford less as a nation. Also for the record, the rich should pay more, and so should corporations.